Health workers protest on the streets of Madrid

Euronews

Doctors, nurses and hospital staff have protested on the streets of the Spanish capital, Madrid.

They are angry about the regional government’s plans to privatise six facilities as part of the cuts planned for 2013.

“We are here because the government is privatising our welfare state, public health and education.” said one woman.

“Of course things will change for the patients, she says, despite what the politicians say. They will have to pay a lot more for their treatment.” said another.

Spaniards are being increasingly asked to shoulder their health care. Pensioners, for example, who previously paid nothing, must now fork out ten percent of their prescription costs. Health workers fear privatisations will also lead to layoffs and deteriorating health care.